Whether you’re looking to replace your current roof or wondering which type of roof might be best for the home you’re about to purchase, understanding your options for roofing materials can help you make the best decision for your specific needs.
While most homes in the United States today use asphalt and composition shingles for the roof, standing seam metal roofs are becoming an increasingly common choice for home buyers and those looking for a roof replacement.
As with the traditional asphalt and composition shingles, there are pros and cons to this type of material. For those who have a smaller budget to work with, asphalt and composition shingles are generally much more affordable, which is why they remain one of the more popular options today.
That said, standing seam metal roofs continue to grow more common each year, despite being more expensive.
Benefits of Standing Seam Roofing
One of the unique features of a standing seam metal roof is that there will be a gap between your home and the roof itself. The roof seams are attached to your home with fasteners that range between a half inch and 1.5 inches long, depending on the specific style.
The fasteners used are not exposed to any external weather conditions, helping to prevent damage from the elements.
For many homeowners, standing seam metal roofs also offer a more modern and stylish look compared to traditional alternatives, which can make a massive difference in the overall appearance of your home.
Perhaps the biggest reason this type of roofing is becoming so popular is that it is significantly more durable than roofing shingles. According to some estimates, a well-maintained metal roof can last up to two times longer than a roof that uses shingles, which means your roof can last up to 30 years with proper care.
There are also a wide variety of ways in which you can install the metal roof based on the specific look and foundation you’re aiming to have for your home.
While metal is certainly not immune to damage from a storm or outside weather conditions, it is generally considered to be more durable and can handle substantial amounts of rain, sleet, or snow without any lasting consequences. Additionally, metal roofs are fire resistant, which is a huge plus as far as safety is concerned.
Downsides of Standing Seam Metal Roofing
There are a few notable disadvantages to metal roofing.
For one, metal is often significantly more expensive in the short-term, which makes it a hard choice if you have a tight budget. Second, not all local contractors have the tools or knowledge to repair or install metal roofing.
That said, if you want a high-quality roof that is extremely durable, standing seam metal roofing is a great option to consider.
At Polaris Roofing Systems we have extensive experience in installing and repairing a wide variety of roof materials including asphalt and shingles as well as metal seam standing roofs.
If you’re looking to replace your roof or want us to inspect the roof of the home you recently purchased, give us a call today, and we will be happy to learn more about your specific circumstances.
